Vamsadhara, Nagavali Swell as Heavy Rains Lash North Andhra

Heavy rains triggered by a low-pressure system have intensified the flood situation in parts of north coastal Andhra Pradesh, with the Vamsadhara and Nagavali rivers witnessing rising inflows and several streams, tanks and other water bodies overflowing.

Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) Managing Director Prakhar Jain urged people living in the river basins to remain alert as floodwaters continue to rise. He warned residents against entering rivers for swimming or fishing, stressing that strong currents could prove dangerous.

At Thotapalli on the Nagavali River, the inflow was recorded at 24,639 cusecs, while 23,250 cusecs was being released downstream. The second flood warning continued at Narayanapuram, where both inflow and outflow were reported at around 76,000 cusecs.

On the Vamsadhara, the first flood warning remained in force at Gotta Barrage. The barrage was receiving 43,860 cusecs of water, while 46,197 cusecs was being released downstream.

Both rivers flow through Srikakulam district, where authorities have kept disaster-response teams ready to deal with possible emergencies. Residents have been advised to stay away from swollen rivers, streams and low-lying areas and to seek assistance from emergency teams if required.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu directed officials to immediately conduct a field-level assessment of crop damage caused by the heavy rains and strong winds. Agriculture department teams have been asked to inspect waterlogged fields and assess the condition of standing crops.

Officials were also instructed to help farmers drain excess water from fields and provide suitable advice to minimise losses caused by prolonged moisture. Farmers in affected areas should also be guided on measures to protect crops that can still be saved.

The minister stressed the importance of conserving excess rainwater, saying tanks and other water bodies should be filled wherever possible to strengthen water availability for irrigation and drinking needs in the future.

In another incident, Amudalavalasa TDP MLA Kuna Ravi Kumar, along with the district Collector, SP and other officials, became trapped in floodwaters while inspecting affected areas. Some were reportedly swept away by the strong current. NDRF and SDRF teams rushed to the spot and rescued them safely, bringing relief to officials and residents.

With heavy rain continuing, authorities have urged people to exercise extreme caution and avoid entering flooded rivers and streams.